Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, McPherson County, KS, had a population of 30,223. The median age was 41.6 years. About 50.1% of residents were female and 49.9% male. The racial makeup was 91.8% White, 1.3% Black, 0.6% Asian, 0.3% Native American, 2.7% from two or more races, and 5.5% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

McPherson County, Kansas, with a population of around 30,000, had approximately 16,800 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include local, state, and federal levels, with polling locations in cities like McPherson, Lindsborg, and Moundridge. In the 2020 presidential election, 73% voted Republican, 24% Democrat. The County Clerk administers elections, with advance voting available. Major issues include education funding and rural infrastructure. The area is predominantly Republican, but features active Democratic and Libertarian Party presence.

Education, Employment and Housing

McPherson County, KS hosts around 18 public schools, including 5 high schools. Approximately 92% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 29% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school test score is near the Kansas state average (about 48% proficiency in reading/math). Schools focus on safety and offer diverse programs—such as vocational training, STEM, and advanced placement courses. Adult education is supported through local community colleges and technical schools, with reported low rates of disciplinary incidents, contributing to a generally safe learning environment.

As of 2022, McPherson County, KS had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.6%. Key industries include manufacturing (28.5% of employment), healthcare and social assistance (13.4%), and retail trade (10.3%). Leading occupations are production (15.9%), office & administrative support (11.7%), and management roles (10.2%). About 82.8% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 15.6 minutes; 78.4% work within the county, while the remainder commute to nearby regions, chiefly Hutchinson and Wichita.

McPherson County, KS, has a homeownership rate of approximately 74%, with median home values around $170,000 in 2023, reflecting steady growth of 5% annually. Rentals comprise about 26% of housing, with median rents near $850/month. Housing types are mainly single-family homes, with some apartments in towns like McPherson and Lindsborg. Neighborhoods are mostly quiet and suburban, with a few rural and historic areas. Property taxes average 1.36% of assessed value, translating to around $2,300 per year for a median-priced home. The market remains affordable compared to state and national averages.

County Crime & Safety

McPherson County, KS, maintains a low crime rate compared to national averages. As of 2023, the violent crime rate is approximately 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 8.2 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement reports indicate a declining trend in overall crime, supported by community policing and public safety initiatives. The county recorded fewer than 30 violent crimes and about 160 property crimes in the past year, emphasizing a safe environment for residents. Regular crime reporting and transparency contribute to community trust and proactive safety measures.